Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? I created this post because I’ve been craving fresh, flavorful meals that keep things light and vibrant. And guess what? Nothing says ‘delicious’ like a bowl of pasta tossed in homemade vegan pesto. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hearty dish without any guilt!
This collection is for anyone who loves plant-based pasta dishes or is simply looking for a quick and easy dinner solution. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just someone trying to reduce dairy, these recipes are for you. You’ll find something to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends!
Inside, you’ll discover 12 vegan pesto pasta recipes that are not only dairy-free but also bursting with flavor. Each recipe is designed to be simple and accessible, making it easy for you to whip up a healthy meal any day of the week. From creamy avocado basil to zesty cilantro lime pesto, your taste buds are in for a treat!
So grab your favorite pasta, and let’s dive into these mouthwatering vegan sauce recipes. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create healthy vegan meals that are both good for you and full of fresh ingredients. Trust me, your dinner table will never be the same!
1. Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta
Craving a creamy and vibrant pasta dish? This creamy avocado basil pesto pasta is your answer! With ripe avocados as the base, you get a rich texture without any dairy, making it a nutritious choice. Fresh basil and garlic add a burst of flavor that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. You won’t believe how easy it is to prepare!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like brown rice or chickpea pasta)
– 2 ripe avocados
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend together the avocados, basil, pine nuts, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the avocado pesto until well coated.
5. Serve garnished with extra pine nuts and basil leaves.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen avocados? Yes, just thaw them slightly before blending.
– Can I make it nut-free? Substitute sunflower seeds for the pine nuts.
Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:29 PM
Rummo Gluten Free Pasta Variety Pack – Spaghetti Noodles, Fusilli, Penne…
Amazon$20.86
Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from M…
Amazon$23.31
Cuisinart Food Processor, 14-Cup Vegetable Food Chopper for Mincing, Dic…
Amazon$289.99
Banza Chickpea Pasta, Linguine – Gluten Free Healthy Pasta, High Protein…
Amazon$30.99
Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta – Spirals – 8 oz (Pack of 6)
Amazon$26.992. Spinach Walnut Pesto Pasta
Looking to incorporate more greens into your meals? This spinach walnut pesto pasta is a delicious way to do just that! Spinach not only brings a vibrant color to your plate but also offers a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Paired with walnuts, it creates a rich, nutty flavor that complements gluten-free pasta beautifully. This dish is quick, satisfying, and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– 2/3 cup olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend together the spinach, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, and salt until finely chopped.
3. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth.
4. Combine the spinach walnut pesto with the hot pasta.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra walnuts if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use other nuts? Absolutely! Try almonds or pecans.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free as is!
Fun fact: a serving of spinach in pesto pasta can boost vitamin K and folate by 30% in one meal, while walnuts add heart-healthy fats. Swap in gluten-free pasta, and your vegan pesto pasta recipes turn quick greens into a nutrient-packed dinner.
Spinach Walnut Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:29 PM
Schar Naturally Gluten-Free Spaghetti, 12-Ounce Packages (Pack of 5)
Amazon$38.48
DeLallo Gluten Free Corn and Rice, Spaghetti, 12 Ounce (Pack of 12)
Amazon$47.96
Ronzoni Gluten Free Pasta 12oz Box (Pack of 6) Choose Shape Below (Spagh…
Amazon$29.00
Barilla Red Lentil Penne Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Gluten Free, Non G…
Amazon$29.903. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta
Want to elevate your pasta game? This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is bursting with flavor! The rich umami from sun-dried tomatoes adds depth that transforms any dish. Combined with fresh basil and garlic, this vibrant pesto is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch. It’s a delightful twist on classic pesto that you’ll love!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like quinoa or rice pasta)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
– 2 cups fresh basil
– 1 clove garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the sauce with the hot pasta until evenly coated.
5. Serve topped with additional sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
FAQs:
– Can I add nuts? Yes, pine nuts or walnuts would be great additions!
– Can I make it oil-free? Yes, use vegetable broth instead of olive oil.
Fun fact: Sun-dried tomatoes boost pesto with 2x the umami of fresh tomatoes, delivering bold flavor in minutes. Pair with gluten-free pasta and fresh basil for a quick weeknight dinner. These vegan pesto pasta recipes stay vibrant and satisfying.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:29 PM
Andean Dream Quinoa Spaghetti Pasta, Gluten Free, Vegan, 8 Ounce (Pack o…
Amazon$61.67
Andean Dream Org Spaghetti Quinoa Pasta Gluten Free ,8 Oz(Pack of 12)
Amazon$50.00
Andean Dream Organic Quinoa Fusilli Pasta, 8 Ounce — 12 per case.12
Amazon$40.00
Ancient Harvest Organic Quinoa Pasta, Elbows, 8 Ounce (Pack of 12)
Amazon$58.33
Ancient Harvest Organic Gluten-Free Corn and Quinoa Supergrain Spaghetti…
Amazon$59.244. Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Basil Pesto
Searching for a light and refreshing dish? These zucchini noodles with lemon basil pesto are perfect for warm days! Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative while still allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors of pesto. The zesty lemon juice adds a bright touch that enhances the entire meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it makes a delightful appetizer or main course!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchini
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup almonds (or pine nuts)
– 2 cloves garlic
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchini and set aside.
2. In a food processor, blend the basil, nuts, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Gradually add olive oil while blending and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Toss the zucchini noodles with the lemon basil pesto until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil and a sprinkle of almonds.
FAQs:
– Can I use regular pasta? Yes, traditional pasta works too!
– Can I add protein? Top it with chickpeas or white beans for extra nutrition.
Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Basil Pesto
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:29 PM
OXO Good Grips 3-Blade Tabletop Spiralizer with StrongHold Suction
Amazon$38.88
Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer…
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Brieftons 7-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer…
Amazon$33.99
Brieftons 10-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Duty Spiral …
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5. Pea and Mint Pesto Pasta
Craving something fresh and vibrant? This pea and mint pesto pasta offers a unique twist on traditional pesto! Bright green peas blended with fresh mint create a light, refreshing sauce that pairs perfectly with gluten-free pasta. Not only is this dish packed with protein, but it also bursts with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for spring picnics or light dinners!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like lentil pasta)
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a pot, cook the peas until tender. Drain and let cool.
3. In a food processor, blend the cooled peas, mint, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the pesto with the hot pasta and serve garnished with extra peas and mint.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh peas? Yes, fresh peas can be substituted for frozen.
– Can I make it creamy? Add a dollop of avocado for creaminess!
Fun fact: 1 cup of peas packs about 8 g of protein into vegan pesto pasta recipes. Mix in fresh mint and gluten-free pasta, and you’ve got a bright, dairy-free meal that feels easy, light, and surprisingly hearty.
Pea and Mint Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:32 PM
Barilla Red Lentil Rotini Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Gluten Free, Non …
Amazon$26.60
Barilla Red Lentil Penne Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Gluten Free, Non G…
Amazon$29.90
EXPLORE CUISINE Organic Red Lentil Penne – High Protein, Gluten Free Pas…
Amazon$30.00
Explore Cuisine Organic Red Lentil Elbows- High Protein, Gluten Free Pas…
Amazon$30.00
Felicia Gluten Free Pasta, Red Lentil Penne, 26G Protein per Serving, Or…
Amazon$32.996. Arugula Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? This arugula pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes offers a delightful kick! The spicy arugula combines beautifully with sweet cherry tomatoes to create a fresh, vibrant dish. It’s super easy to make, making it perfect for last-minute dinners or satisfying lunches. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like rice pasta)
– 2 cups fresh arugula
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend the arugula, almonds, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the arugula pesto with the hot pasta and add cherry tomatoes.
5. Serve right away, garnished with extra almonds and arugula.
FAQs:
– Can I add creaminess? Yes, stir in some cashew cream for added richness!
– Can I include vegetables? Roasted veggies make a great addition.
Arugula Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:32 PM
Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Vegan, Gluten Free,…
Amazon$26.60
The Only Bean – Soy, Black Bean, and Edamame Spaghetti & Fettuccine – Gl…
Amazon$28.99
Giadzy by Giada De Laurentiis 3 Pack Gluten Free Variety Pasta – include…
Amazon$32.99
Tinkyada Gluten Free Organic Brown Rice Pasta Spirals, 12-Ounce (Pack of 6)
Amazon$28.44
Wilderness Poets SPiN, Organic Cashew Cream and Milk Concentrate (Unswee…
Amazon$20.98
7. Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Pasta
Ready to impress your taste buds? This roasted red pepper pesto pasta is bursting with flavor and color! The sweetness of roasted red bell peppers pairs beautifully with almonds and fresh basil, creating a stunning sauce that enhances any gluten-free pasta. Rich, smoky, and utterly delicious, it’s perfect for meal prep or cozy nights in!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like corn pasta)
– 2 cups roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the roasted red pepper pesto.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil or extra almonds.
FAQs:
– Can I add lemon? Yes, a squeeze of lemon adds a fresh twist!
– Can I pair it with veggies? Grilled vegetables make a hearty complement.
Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:32 PM
Burroughs Family Farms 3 lb USDA Organic Raw Almonds – First Regenerativ…
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Rustichella d’Abruzzo Organic Corn Fusilli (Pack of 2), 250g Each – Glut…
Amazon$21.99![Le Veneziane - Italian Fusilli (Eliche) Pasta [Gluten-Free], (4)- 8.8 oz...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81748aV51pL._AC_UL320_.jpg "12 Vegan Pesto Pasta Recipes for Fresh Plant-Based Flavor 72")
Le Veneziane – Italian Fusilli (Eliche) Pasta [Gluten-Free], (4)- 8.8 oz…
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Morelli Organic Gluten Free Linguine Pasta Made With Corn – Vegan Corn N…
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Rummo Gluten Free Fusilli N.48 – Gluten Free Fusilli Pasta Noodles, Made…
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8. Garlic and Herb Pesto Pasta
Want a simple yet flavorful meal? This garlic and herb pesto pasta is a go-to favorite! Packed with fresh herbs and a punch of garlic, it’s the ultimate flavor booster for any pasta dish. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for quick meals and can be customized with any herbs you have on hand. You’ll love how easy it is to make!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like chickpea pasta)
– 2 cups fresh parsley
– 2 cups fresh cilantro
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, almonds, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the hot pasta with the garlic herb pesto until coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs.
FAQs:
– Can I use different herbs? Yes, dill or mint make great substitutes!
– Can I add texture? Roasted veggies or nuts on top enhance the dish!
Garlic and Herb Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:31 PM
Banza Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta, Variety Pack 20g Protein | Lower Carb …
Amazon$23.08
Barilla Chickpea Rotini Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Vegan, Gluten Free,…
Amazon$26.60
Barilla Chickpea Penne Pasta, 8.8 oz (Pack of 10) – Vegan, Gluten Free, …
Amazon$28.72
Explore Cuisine Organic Chickpea Fusilli – Pack of 6 (8 oz) – Easy-to-Ma…
Amazon$30.00
Chickapea Organic Chickpea and Red Lentil Pasta Spirals – Gluten-Free, V…
Amazon$39.21
9. Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
Craving something uniquely delicious? Pumpkin seed pesto pasta offers a nutty flavor that’s perfect for fall! Roasted pumpkin seeds create a creamy texture that’s satisfying and delightful. Tossed with your favorite gluten-free pasta, this dish is full of earthy flavors, making it ideal for chilly evenings. It’s a fun way to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your meals!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like rice pasta)
– 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
– 2 cups fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend pumpkin seeds, basil, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix the pasta with the pumpkin seed pesto until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds and basil.
FAQs:
– Can I make it creamier? Yes, add a splash of coconut cream!
– Can I serve it with vegetables? Roasted butternut squash pairs wonderfully.
Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:32 PM
Pumpkin Seeds Pepitas Roasted Unsalted – 32 oz – 2 Pound | Healthy Snack…
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Eden Organic Pumpkin Seeds, Shelled, Dry Roasted and Lightly Sea Salted,…
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Nuts.com – Roasted Pepitas – 2 Lb Bag, Salted No Shell Pumpkin Seeds, He…
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Oh! Nuts Pumpkin Seeds – Roasted Salted – 2 lb – No Shell Pepitas – Pack…
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BIGS Pumpkin Seeds, Simply Salted Homestyle Flavor, 5 oz. (Pack of 12)
Amazon$29.5210. Cilantro Lime Pesto Pasta
Looking for a bright and zesty dish? This cilantro lime pesto pasta delivers a flavor explosion! With its refreshing citrus notes and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for summer dining or whenever you crave something lively. Bursting with flavors and nutrients, it makes an excellent choice for a hearty lunch or quick dinner. Plus, it’s gluten-free and super easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like quinoa pasta)
– 2 cups fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend cilantro, cashews, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the hot pasta with the cilantro lime pesto until well coated.
5. Serve garnished with lime zest and cilantro.
FAQs:
– Can I use it as a salad dressing? Yes, it works great for salads too!
– Can I make it spicier? Add jalapeños to the pesto for a kick.
Cilantro Lime Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:34 PM
Andean Dream Organic Quinoa Fusilli Pasta, 8 Ounce — 12 per case.12
Amazon$40.00
Andean Dream Quinoa Spaghetti Pasta, Gluten Free, Vegan, 8 Ounce (Pack o…
Amazon$61.67
Ancient Harvest Organic Gluten-Free Corn and Quinoa Supergrain Spaghetti…
Amazon$57.53
Ancient Harvest Organic Quinoa Pasta, Linguine, 8 Ounce (Pack of 12)
Amazon$56.00
Yupik Organic Raw Cashews, 2.2 lb (35.2 oz), Kosher, Gluten-Free, Non-GM…
Amazon$22.15
11. Carrot Top Pesto Pasta
Wondering what to do with those carrot tops? This carrot top pesto pasta showcases a delicious way to reduce food waste! Utilizing the often-discarded greens, this dish offers a unique twist on classic pesto. Blending carrots with garlic and nuts creates a vibrant sauce that’s both tasty and nutritious. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests while making the most of your veggies!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like buckwheat pasta)
– 2 cups carrot tops (washed)
– 1/4 cup walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend carrot tops, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix the carrot top pesto with the cooked pasta until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with walnuts and fresh carrot tops.
FAQs:
– Can I make vegetable broth with leftovers? Yes, absolutely!
– Can I pair it with roasted vegetables? Roasted carrots enhance the flavors nicely.
Carrot Top Pesto Pasta
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 1:34 PM
Rustichella d’Abruzzo Organic Buckwheat Tortiglioni (Pack of 3), 250g Ea…
Amazon$28.99
Felicia Gluten Free Pasta, Buckwheat Mezzi Rigatoni, Organic Noodles Mad…
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Big Green Organic Food- Organic Buckwheat Angel Hair Pasta, 8.8oz, Glute…
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Eden, 100% Organic Buckwheat Soba Pasta, Gluten Free, Traditionally Made…
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12. Thai Basil Pesto Pasta
Ready to spice up your dinner? This Thai basil pesto pasta is a unique flavor experience! Incorporating fragrant Thai basil gives this dish an aromatic twist that’s both distinctive and delicious. Combined with lime and peanuts, this vegan pesto creates a delightful mix that’s sure to impress. It’s a fun way to explore new flavors and elevate your pasta night!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz gluten-free pasta (like rice noodles)
– 2 cups Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 2 cloves garlic
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a food processor, blend Thai basil, peanuts, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the hot pasta with the Thai basil pesto until well coated.
5. Serve garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges.
FAQs:
– Can I add protein? Yes, sautéed tofu or veggies work great!
– Can I drizzle with something? A little sesame oil adds incredible flavor.
Thai Basil Pesto Pasta
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Ninja Food Processor, Professional Plus, 1000 Peak Watts, 4 Functions fo…
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Cuisinart Food Processor, 14-Cup Vegetable Food Chopper for Mincing, Dic…
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Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Thin Rice Noodles, 8.8 oz (Pack of 6)
Amazon$26.98
Thai Basil. Live Plant. Fragrant, Fresh, Edible. Easy Grow. Indoor/Outdo…
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These 12 vegan pesto pasta recipes are perfect for anyone looking to incorporate fresh, plant-based flavors into their meals.
Whether you prefer creamy, zesty, or nutty pesto, there’s a recipe here for every palate! These dishes not only celebrate the joys of vegan cooking but also remind us how simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors. Dive into these delicious meals and explore the beauty of vegan cuisine!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy pesto? Share your thoughts and favorite recipes in the comments below!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these vegan pesto pasta recipes gluten-free and dairy-free?
These recipes keep gluten-free and dairy-free by using gluten-free pasta options and a dairy-free pesto base. Choose pasta like chickpea, brown rice, or corn blends, and whip up a pesto with olive oil, garlic, basil, nuts or seeds, lemon, and a cheesy note from nutritional yeast (if desired). For a pure dairy-free flavor, skip cheese substitutes. To avoid cross-contamination, cook GF pasta separately and rinse after cooking. This is a set of vegan pesto pasta recipes designed to deliver fresh plant-based flavor.
Tip: look for labels that certify gluten-free and verify ingredients are dairy-free to keep it vegan throughout.
How can I make these recipes quick and easy vegan meals for busy weeknights?
Plan ahead by cooking a batch of pasta or pesto on the weekend, then reheat during the week. Use store-bought vegan sauce recipes or premade vegan pesto that fits your taste, and finish with fast toppings like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Try a one-pot method where you simmer the pasta in water just until al dente and stir in pesto at the end for easy vegan recipes. These ideas keep your meals plant-based, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Plus, you can batch cook portions and mix in different veggies to keep variety in your plant-based pasta dishes lineup.
What gluten-free pasta options work best with these vegan pesto sauces?
Great partners for vegan pesto sauces include gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, rice, or corn blends. Chickpea pasta tends to hold up well and adds extra protein, while lentil pasta offers a heartier bite. Cook until al dente and reserve a splash of starchy pasta water to help emulsify the sauce for a glossy coat. Remember to season and taste with gluten-free adjustments as needed to keep the flavors vibrant.
This approach keeps your plant-based pasta dishes satisfying and dairy-free.
How should I store and reheat leftover vegan pesto pasta to keep flavor and texture?
For best results, store dairy-free pasta and pesto separately in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze pesto for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce, then toss with warmed pasta. Avoid overheating to prevent the pesto from separating, and refresh the flavor with a squeeze of lemon or extra fresh herbs. This keeps your plant-based pasta dishes vibrant and delicious even as leftovers.
Tip: if you mixed sauce and pasta before storing, reheat slowly and add a little more olive oil to regain creaminess.
Can I customize these plant-based pasta dishes to be higher in protein or to fit allergies?
Absolutely. Boost protein by adding white beans, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, or hemp seeds to the sauce or toppings. If you have nut allergies, swap to seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) in the pesto and use a nut-free vegan pesto sauce base. You can also include extra plant-based protein like edamame or peas. This keeps your gluten-free and dairy-free plates hearty, satisfying, and adaptable to various dietary needs.
Related Topics
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gluten-free recipes
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